WHAT'S YOUR IT?

I went through the bank drive-thru with my 7 year-old daughter seated behind me today.  She asked why I put my money in the bank.  I responded simply, "to save it."

 

She was quiet for a few minutes.  Finally she said, "Everything doesn't cost money.  Love is free, and so are friends, and hugs and kisses."

 

And then she added, "Dreams are free, and you save those in your heart, not a bank."

 

Words of wisdom from my seven year-old.

 

I went home to read the 800 or so 'Its" that were collected from the runners before the Chicago Marathon last weekend at the It's Gonna Happen Booth at the LaSalle Bank Expo.  These were their dreams:

 

"To finish."

"3 hours 40 minutes."

"Finish, and then sleep!"

 

We were going to post all the "its" about how fast runners dreamed of finishing the marathon on the website - but today I realized it wasn't the time that was important.   It was persevering and overcoming nature’s obstacles.  It was our philosophy.

 

By the start of the race on Sunday 10,000 runners had decided to let that dream stay in their hearts until next year.

35, 867 runners risked it all to make it happen, despite the record heat. It was  more of a challenge than anyone could have prepared themselves for. 

For the 24, 933 that finished, what an accomplishment!  We cheered you on through the streets of Chicago.  We banded together with wristbands and signs, supporting you – running or walking – to the finish line.

Finishing was a victory.  Hey, showing up to run on the hottest day in the history of the Chicago Marathon took guts and determination.  You're a winner in my book.

For those who did not finish, we commend you for your effort and determination to make it happen.  And there’s always next year to set your goals, even if it is just to finish.   

Keep believing.

And for Chad, you gave it your all.  We’ll keep the spirit of your determination with us as we prepare for Chicago Marathon 2008:  October 12, 2008.               

 It’s Gonna Happen.